DeviceHive vs K3s: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between DeviceHive and K3s comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
DeviceHive
An open-source IoT data platform for seamless device connectivity, data processing, and analytics.
Best for you if:
- • Open-source IoT data platform for device connectivity and management.
- • Scalable deployment options using Docker and Kubernetes for various cloud environments.
K3s
Lightweight Kubernetes for edge and IoT
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.6/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • K3s is a lightweight Kubernetes distribution for edge, IoT, and resource-constrained environments
- • It provides full Kubernetes functionality in a single binary under 100MB
| At a Glance |  DeviceHive |  K3s |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free |
Best For | IoT Platforms | IoT Platforms |
Rating | —/100 | 86/100 |
| Feature | DeviceHive | K3s |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| Editorial Score | — | 86 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | IoT Platforms | IoT PlatformsEdge Computing |
How DeviceHive and K3s Compare
DeviceHive
An open-source IoT data platform for seamless device connectivity, data processing, and analytics.
Free
K3s
Lightweight Kubernetes for edge and IoT
Free · 86/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are free. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: DeviceHive
Want the highest-rated option?
K3s scores 86/100. DeviceHive is unrated.
Go with: K3s
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: K3s
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are free. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Both are iot platforms tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
K3s
- Higher score: 86/100 vs unrated
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
DeviceHive
The Bottom Line
K3s (86/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is DeviceHive or K3s better?
K3s scores 86/100 in our evaluation. Both are free.
What are DeviceHive and K3s used for?
DeviceHive: An open-source IoT data platform for seamless device connectivity, data processing, and analytics.. K3s: Lightweight Kubernetes for edge and IoT.
What does DeviceHive cost vs K3s?
DeviceHive is completely free. K3s is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.